We are the Leading Garage in Marlborough to Replace Your Dodge Thrust Arm

February 21, 2023

Metal control arms of a Dodge vehicle connect the vehicle’s chassis to the steering wheel . This part is essential for the car’s steering and suspension system . Every car has control arm bushings at the joints where the upper and lower control arms meet the car’s frame, just as every skeletal system includes cartilage to soften and align bones at a joint.

These bushings are made of a rubber or polyurethane cylinder that is adhered to a larger and smaller metal cylinder on the outside and interior, respectively.

Common Causes of Lower Control Arm Bushing Noise

Although there are numerous causes of strange noises in a car, a lower control arm bushing issue has its own specific noises. These sounds, coming from the vicinity of the control arm , mostly sound like knocking noises . Some of the most frequent reasons for lower control arm bushing noise are listed below:

  • Worn Out Bushing: Bushings are not indestructible. The more miles you put on your car, the more worn out your lower control arm bushing becomes. Initially, you may just hear a slight clunking sound, but as the bushing wears down more, you will hear it more frequently and louder.
  • Loose Bushing: If the lower control arm bushing is loose, it will be jostled around by the surrounding metal parts. The bushing may not actually be worn in this case. Maybe the bump you drove over caused it to become loose, or a mechanic may have lowered it unintentionally while working on another component of your car. No matter the cause, loose bushings always produce the same knocking noises.
  • Wear and Tear: Too much wear and tear might cause a lower control arm bushing to break. Another possibility is that a technician working on something else accidentally damaged it. In contrast to worn bushings, which become louder over time, a fractured control arm will make loud, deafening clunking noises.
  • Driving over Uneven Ground: The thumping or clunking sounds you hear will be increased if you drive over uneven terrains, such as pebbles or rocky roads. Driving over this type of terrain would not cause a bushing to become loose or to jiggle about. However, if the bushing is not fixed in place, the vehicle’s unpredictable motion as it travels over this topography could cause the bushings to become loose.

Symptoms of a Bad Control Arm

The control arm will eventually become worn out, just like most other elements of your car. Here are some of the most typical symptoms.

  • Increased vibrations: If this is frequently sensed in the steering wheel, it is most likely the first sign that a control arm in your car is beginning to fail. Normal acceleration causes the vibrations to increase.
  • Clunking/Banging Noises: When the control arm bushings are excessively worn or loosened, you may start to hear a clunking noise coming from underneath your car . This is because the bushing is banged in between the frame and the control arm. Driving on rocky or uneven terrain will make this sound louder, but even tiny bumps or routine harsh braking might make this noise.
  • Wandering Steering: Worn bushings can cause misalignment , which might result in a steering wheel that pulls to the left or right while you’re driving. Bad bushings allow for excessive and abnormal motion in the system, which causes the wheels to be out of alignment because they tightly secure the vehicle body and control arm.

Replacing Control Arm Bushings

A mechanic in an orange shirt uses a tool to compress a car brake caliper while working on a vehicle's brake system.

It is best to replace all of the control arms at once, as when one is worn, it’s likely that the others will soon follow. Professional Automotive repair shop is  located in Marlborough, MA, and we are the best place in your area to go for these types of repairs! Since 1994, we have provided high-quality auto repair for drivers throughout the Marlborough area as well as Hudson, North, West and Southborough, Bolton, and Stow.

Our dedication to customer satisfaction has made us the area’s go-to auto repair shop . No matter what your car needs, our team has the tools and experience. Our technicians are ASE certified and committed to providing your car with the highest quality service possible.

Please call or visit our shop today to schedule an appointment for your car or to learn more about our services. Let our friendly staff and expert mechanics show you the “Professional” way to take care of your car!

A mechanic wearing black gloves holds a cylindrical car oil filter above an engine during maintenance.
September 11, 2025
When the dashboard of your Subaru displays the ‘no oil pressure’ warning light, it indicates that the oil pressure in the oil line is low, and the components are not receiving adequate oil due to this low pressure. Proper oil pressure ensures the engine oil reaches the engine components. This helps in the proper lubrication […]
Two mechanics in gray uniforms working on the underside of a car lifted on a hydraulic hoist in a garage.
August 11, 2025
The front wheel bearing of your Honda bears the crucial responsibility of holding the front wheels attached to the axle, all while ensuring unobstructed circulation of the wheel with minimal friction. Apart from smooth operation, bearings also assist in supporting the vehicle’s weight, dampening vibrations while driving, and assisting in precision steering. It also ensures […]
Close-up view of an automobile's front suspension, showing the brake caliper, CV axle, and control arm.
July 11, 2025
The suspension system in your Acura absorbs the impact from the road to the vehicle and provides the drivers and passengers with a smooth and comfortable ride. Not only does it assist in a comfortable and smooth ride, but it also ensures safety during driving. Acura vehicle models are specifically designed to provide top-notch suspension, […]
A mechanic wearing orange work gloves inspects the engine of a car.
June 11, 2025
In modern Lexus vehicles, the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) is a crucial component of the fuel delivery system. It is found in direct-injection engines, where the fuel is directly injected into the combustion chamber. The high-pressure fuel pump receives fuel from the low-pressure pump and pushes it into the combustion chamber at very high pressure. […]
A hand opening the radiator cap under the hood of a car engine.
May 11, 2025
As a Mini owner, you understand that keeping your vehicle in top shape is key to make sure your Mini lasts longer and performs at its best.  One part of your Mini’s engine system is the PCV valve (Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve). When this valve stops working the way it should, it can lead to […]
A close-up of a metallic automotive turbocharger showing the compressor wheel and intake housing against a dark background.
April 11, 2025
Mercedes V12 engines provide a smooth driving experience for car owners, but these engines are not that easy to maintain and need proper care to run at their best. If you see signs of an engine problem, it is wise to seek help so that it doesn’t become a major problem in the future. Let’s […]
A detailed close-up of a silver car alternator and black drive belt system attached to an engine block.
March 11, 2025
Are you in need of electrical services in your BMW? As much as BMWs are known to be technologically superior and have some of the best features in the market, they also have some of the most complicated electrical systems, and they can sometimes malfunction. If your BMW is showing random warning lights, having a […]
A person using a tablet to diagnose a car engine in a garage setting.
February 11, 2025
Do you have problems with the electronics in your BMW? If yes, then this article is for you. Your BMW is more than an automobile; it is an engineered, high-performance, technologically advanced object of sleek beauty meant to showcase the best in today’s automotive manufacturing. However, even the best cars on the market can have […]
An open car transmission assembly with a large gear, shaft, and loose screws resting in a metal casing.
January 11, 2025
The clutch assembly system plays a pivotal role in BMW car models with manual transmission systems. It is responsible for disrupting power flow between the engine and transmission, so as to allow the driver to shift gear while in motion. If you are wondering what makes your BMW maintain smooth motion while the engine is […]
A mechanic in gloves uses tools to repair the suspension and tire assembly of a vehicle in a workshop.
December 11, 2024
Is your Volvo drifting to the side,, or is the steering less efficient when making a sharp turn? If yes, you may be faced with a tie rod failure. Tie rods are essential parts of the steering system in your Volvo that connect the steering rack to the wheels. Whenever you turn the steering wheel, […]